Nick began his new role on Saturday (29 September), taking over from retiring Chief Constable Alec Wood.

He said: “I’m thrilled to take up the post of Chief Constable and am looking forward to learning about the force and the people and communities we serve.”

Nick said one of his first priorities will be getting out and about to fully understand the concerns and demands of the workforce.

He said: “The force has just been through a significant restructure in the past few months, and any change at a time of significant demand on limited police resources is never easy.

“I will spend some time in my first few weeks speaking to officers and staff to appreciate the pressures they are facing and understand what we can do to support them to continue to serve the people of Cambridgeshire in the best way we can.”

Nick will work closely with Police and Crime Commissioner Jason Ablewhite, partner agencies and importantly the community, to help deliver the Police and Crime Plan.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Jason Ablewhite said: “Nick brings with him a wealth of experience both in terms of understanding the challenges faced by modern day policing and an inclusive approach to partnership working. I very much look forward to working with him.”

Nick added: “Partnership working has always been important to me and is something I am keen to continue here in Cambridgeshire.

“I plan to take my time to properly get to know the force and its people, to ensure I continue the legacy of keeping the people of Cambridgeshire safe.”

Nick is 51 years old, and has 26 years’ police service. He first joined Norfolk Constabulary in September 1992, where he gained experience first in uniformed roles such as patrol and custody, before periods in the control room, corporate support and local policing.

He was appointed temporary assistant chief constable in June 2013 and was made substantive in May 2016, and became temporary deputy chief constable in October 2016. Nick was substantively promoted to DCC in February 2017.